Porsche 917K '70

aspiration

NA (Naturally Aspirated)

Group

Gr.X

Displacement

4,907 cc

DriveTrain

MR

Height

940 mm

Length

4,120 mm

Weight

800 kg

Width

1,980 mm

Max Power

598 BHP / 8,500 rpm

Max Torque

55.0 kgfm / 6,500 rpm

Performance Point

PP 730.37

Manufacturer

Porsche

Porsche 917K '70: The Iconic Racing Legend That Dominated Le Mans

The Porsche 917K '70 stands as one of motorsport’s most revered icons, representing a defining moment in endurance racing history. Launched in 1969, the Porsche 917 quickly established itself as a powerhouse in the World Sportscar Championship, but it was the 917K '70 — with the 'K' denoting its Kurzheck or short tail design — that truly sealed Porsche’s legacy at Le Mans.

The transformation from the long-tailed original to the 917K was not merely cosmetic; the redesign dramatically improved high-speed stability, a key factor in the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans. The 917K made its definitive mark in 1970, when Hans Herrmann and Richard Attwood drove it to Porsche’s first overall victory at Le Mans, ending Ferrari and Ford’s stronghold on the event. Its 4.5-liter flat-12 engine powered the car to top speeds exceeding 220 mph, and its striking Gulf and Salzburg liveries became legendary in motor racing imagery.

Beyond its Le Mans triumph, the Porsche 917K helped shape endurance racing’s future with its relentless pursuit of speed, aerodynamics, and reliability. In addition to the 1970 win, the 917K contributed to Porsche's dominance in sports car racing, securing multiple victories and championship points throughout the early 1970s. Its success in both competition and popular culture, notably through its starring role in the Steve McQueen film 'Le Mans,' has solidified the 917K '70 as an enduring symbol of speed, innovation, and racing heritage. Even decades later, it remains a coveted collector's item and a celebrated inspiration in the automotive and racing world.